The first STEP4NAMs ENABLE On-Site Training is coming to Tübingen – and further details on the programme are now available.
From 25–27 January 2027, the 3R-Center for In-vitro-Models and Alternatives to Animal Testing at the University of Tübingen will host a 2.5-day practical training course dedicated to Organ-on-Chip (OoC) technology. The training is designed especially for SMEs in the BioPharma and MedTech sectors that want to explore how Organ-on-Chip approaches can be integrated into industrial R&D and translational workflows.
With a maximum of 30 participants, the course combines practical laboratory work, analytical approaches, case studies and discussions on implementation.
From chip fabrication to real-world applications
The training takes participants through essential steps involved in setting up and working with Organ-on-Chip models. Rather than focusing only on the theoretical background, the course is designed to provide hands-on experience and help participants understand the complete experimental workflow.
Participants will learn how to:
- set up an Organ-on-Chip model and gain practical experience with OoC systems,
- understand basic chip fabrication principles and select suitable models and materials for specific applications,
- integrate cells into microfluidic chips to create human-relevant Organ-on-Chip models,
- understand the fundamentals of fluidics and select appropriate pump systems,
- explore different analytical and readout strategies for Organ-on-Chip systems,
- assess how Organ-on-Chip technologies could be implemented in their own research and development activities.
A particular focus will be placed on translating the knowledge gained during the training into practice. Case studies and moderated discussions will therefore explore existing applications, implementation opportunities and potential future use cases.
Training programme
Day 1 – Setting up a model
25 January 2027 | 9:00–18:00
The first day focuses on the foundations of Organ-on-Chip model development. Following a welcome and introduction, participants will discuss current challenges and opportunities in Organ-on-Chip technology in an interactive workshop.
The hands-on sessions will cover:
- microfabrication,
- material selection,
- cell seeding,
- setup of perfusion systems.
Day 2 – Analytical approaches
26 January 2027 | 9:00–17:00
The second day turns to the question of how Organ-on-Chip models can be analysed. Hands-on workshops will introduce selected readout technologies and analytical approaches, including:
- imaging techniques,
- in situ analysis,
- in silico modelling.
Day 3 – Applications & outlook
27 January 2027 | 9:00–12:30
The final half-day connects the technical knowledge from the previous sessions with practical implementation. Participants will work with a case study on an Organ-on-Chip application and discuss strategies and opportunities for integrating the technology into research and translational workflows.
The training concludes with a moderated workshop and wrap-up session.
Who is the training for?
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) meeting the EU criteria (< 250 employees, defined turnover/balance sheet limits) from the BioPharma and MedTech sectors, in particular:
- developers and users of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs)
- companies driving the adoption of Organ-on-Chip (OoC) technology in industrial R&D and translation
- start-ups seeking to integrate OoC technology into their workflows
The training offers the opportunity to explore Organ-on-Chip technology in a practical setting before committing to a wider implementation. Structured guidance on system setup, materials, cell integration and analytical approaches helps to reduce technological entry barriers. Participants can also exchange experiences with academic and industry experts as well as with other companies working with Organ-on-Chip technologies.
Meet the trainers
The training will be delivered by STEP4NAMs project contributors with expertise in Organ-on-Chip technology and training, including:
- Dr. Pauline Jeckel-Maier
- Dr. Hanna Vuorenpää
- Dr. Fulya Ersoy
- Marlene Fritsch
External workshop leaders will complement the programme with additional academic and technical expertise in Organ-on-Chip models and analytical approaches.
Participation requirements: complete EDUCATE before applying
Interested in joining the training? Before submitting an application, participants need to complete two parts of the STEP4NAMs EDUCATE programme:
- STEP4NAMs Core Module
- Sub-Module 1: Organ-on-Chip
Both online modules are available free of charge via the STEP4NAMs Moodle platform and must be completed by the time of application.
Access
the training content here: Moodle plattform
Training at a glance
Date: 25–27 January 2027
Duration: 2.5 days
Location:
3R-Center for In-vitro-Models and Alternatives to Animal Testing
Eberhard Karls University Tübingen
Waldhörnlestr. 22
72072 Tübingen, Germany
Maximum number of participants: 30
More information about the full ENABLE programme is available here: ENABLE
